With hundreds of millions of guns in the hands of private individuals and government agencies, there will always be a need for qualified gunsmiths. A newly trained gunsmith has a choice of at least three career paths, with the potential to cross over if your life or employment goals change.

Getting Started as Gun Repair Pro

A gunsmith career typically starts with training from a dedicated vocational school. Remote courses also are a possibility. With some gunsmithing knowledge under your belt, the next step is to work as an apprentice to an experienced gunsmith. The apprenticeship stage gives you hands-on experience with the different tasks a gunsmith must accomplish and may possibly help you choose which career path you would like to pursue as you gain experience.

Work in the Industry

The gun manufacturing industry has an obvious need for gunsmiths. This work may include the assembly of weapons and the repair of guns returned under warranty. Working for a firearms or other gun equipment related manufacturer offers the opportunity to move up the corporate ladder into design or management positions. Teaching at one of the gunsmith schools would be another branch in the corporate gunsmith career path.

Government and Law Enforcement Work

Any government agency that uses weapons needs gunsmiths to repair and maintain those guns. Employment opportunities range from your local police department to national law enforcement agencies such as the FBI and Border Patrol. In the law enforcement field, a gunsmith may instead be referred to as an armorer. These jobs would offer competitive salaries, nice benefit packages and the potential for an early retirement.

Opening Your Own Business

Independent gunsmiths provide a wide range of services including customizing, repairing and installing after-market parts. With your own gunsmith business you can serve local gun owners, or you might reach the level of a well-known expert with owners from around the country sending you their guns for your services. As a gunsmith business owner you may choose to do the work yourself or hire other gunsmiths and apprentices to work under your guidance.

About the Author

Tim Plaehn has been writing financial, investment and trading articles and blogs since 2007. His work has appeared online at Seeking Alpha, Marketwatch.com and various other websites. Plaehn has a bachelor's degree in mathematics from the U.S. Air Force Academy.